Aging Gracefully - 10-02-13

My plan is to age as gracefully as possibly. I'll admit that some days it's easier said than done. Getting old in America is no easy task when we're constantly bombarded with images (most of them looking nothing like the average person) that suggest that we might not be quite up to par. I say, as hard as it might be, don't buy into the hipe. You know I'm always saying, "Do You."

Most of us know the basics---eat well, exercise, get enough sleep, don't smoke, don't drink heavily. There are a few others I've incorporated into my self-care lifestyle:

• A daily spiritual practice.
• Practicing  forgiveness (this is ongoing).
• Don't imitate - Insist on being yourself
• I try not to let other people's behavior affect me (this too is an ongoing quest).
• I create things that bring me joy (don't wait on other people).
• I constantly count my blessings.

These are just a few suggestions. I invite you to create your own and remember you can always add or subtract from your list. The better you take care of yourself, the more you have to give to others.

Self-care = Self love.

Together we thrive,

Jacqueline